How Much Does It Cost to Own a Khao Manee? 2024 Price Update
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The Khao Manee is a rare breed of cat that originates from Thailand. It’s known for its distinctive white coat and mesmerizing eyes, which can be blue, gold, or two different colors. If you’re considering owning one, it’s important to understand the costs involved in caring for a Khao Manee. You can adopt one for as little as $150 or get one from breeder for around $800 to $2,500. Monthly costs can then range from $60–$180+ per month.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with an overview of the one-time and ongoing costs associated with owning a Khao Manee cat.
Bringing Home a New Khao Manee: One-Time Costs
When bringing home a new Khao Manee cat, there are a number of one-time costs to consider. The first cost you will encounter is the adoption fee if you choose to adopt from a shelter or rescue organization. The average adoption fee for a Khao Manee cat is around $150.
If you decide to purchase a Khao Manee cat from a breeder, the cost will be higher. Expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2,500, depending on the quality of the cat and the reputation of the breeder. Other one-time costs to consider include the cost of a carrier, which can range from $30 to $100, and the cost of a litter box, litter, and scoop, which can total around $50.
Free
Though these cats are rare and expensive, it is possible to get a Khao Manee cat for free if you’re willing to adopt from a shelter or rescue organization. These organizations often have cats available for adoption, and the adoption fee is typically waived for older cats or cats that have special needs.
Another option is to search online classifieds or social media sites for people who are giving away Khao Manee cats. However, be cautious when doing so, as some individuals may be giving away cats that are sick or have behavioral issues.
Adoption
- $150–$1,000
Adopting a Khao Manee cat from a shelter or rescue organization is a great way to save on initial costs. The adoption fee typically includes spaying or neutering, vaccinations, and a health checkup. This can save you hundreds of dollars in vet bills.
However, keep in mind that the adoption fee is just the beginning of the costs associated with owning a Khao Manee cat. Ongoing expenses such as food, litter, and veterinary care will need to be factored in as well.
Breeder
- $2,000–$12,000
If you decide to purchase a Khao Manee cat from a breeder, the initial costs can be higher. You can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $12,000, depending on the quality of the cat and the reputation of the breeder, as well as how far you have to travel to get one. When purchasing a cat from a breeder, it’s super important to do your research and choose a reputable breeder who is registered with a cat breeding organization. This will help ensure that you are getting a healthy cat that has been bred ethically.
Initial Setup and Supplies
- $150–$300
In addition to the initial costs of adopting or purchasing one of these cute kittens, there are also one-time setup and equipment costs to consider. So, these costs can include a litter box, litter, scoop, food dishes, toys, scratching posts, and a carrier. The total cost for these supplies can range from $150 to $300, depending on the quality and quantity of the items you purchase.
List of Khao Manee Care Supplies and Costs
| ID Tag and Collar | $15–$20 |
| Spay/Neuter | $250–$400 |
| X-Ray Cost | $150–$250 |
| Ultrasound Cost | $250–$475 |
| Microchip | $45–$75 |
| Teeth Cleaning | $175–$350 |
| Bed | $45 |
| Nail Clipper | $12 |
| Brush | $10 |
| Litter Box | $15–$25 |
| Litter Scoop | $12 |
| Toys | $15–$30 |
| Carrier | $45 |
| Food and Water Bowls | $40 |
How Much Does a Khao Manee Cost Per Month?
- $50–$160 per month
The ongoing costs of owning a Khao Manee cat can add up quickly. The average monthly cost for food, litter, and basic supplies is around $50 to $100, depending on the quality of the items you purchase.
In addition to these basic costs, you will also need to factor in the cost of veterinary care, which can range from $200 to $500 per year, depending on the health of your cat and the type of care required.
Health Care
- $50–$500+ per month
Khao Manee cats are generally healthy cats as far as their breed goes. But like all cats, they do require regular vet care to maintain their health. This can include vaccinations, wellness checkups, and treatment for any illnesses or injuries. These costs, like other costs, can vary depending on the type of care required, and may not necessarily occur every month. Routine checkups and vaccinations can cost around $200 per year, while more extensive treatments can cost upwards of $500. And monthly insurance for these cats can range $15–$50 per month.
Food
- $30–$50 per month
Khao Manee cats require a high-quality diet that is rich in protein and nutrients. But being that these cats are of average size, you can expect to pay what you would for most house cats in terms of food cost per month. The cost of food can vary depending on the quality of the food you purchase. But you can expect to pay around $30 to $50 per month for high-quality, grain-free cat food.
Grooming
- $30–$100 per month
The grooming regime for Khao Manee cats includes daily brushing to remove loose fur and prevent matting. This breed has a short, dense coat, which does not require frequent bathing. However, if their coat gets dirty, a bath using a mild cat shampoo is recommended.
Apart from brushing and bathing, regular nail trimming is essential to prevent overgrowth and discomfort to the cat. Dental hygiene is also crucial to prevent tartar buildup and gum problems. Regular teeth cleaning with a cat-safe toothpaste and brushing is recommended.
The cost of grooming a Khao Manee cat varies depending on the services required. Professional grooming services such as nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental cleaning can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per session. Cat owners can also opt to groom their cats at home, which reduces the cost significantly. However, investing in high-quality grooming tools such as brushes, combs, and clippers is essential to maintain the cat’s coat and overall hygiene. The collective cost of these tools ranges from $20–$50, depending on the brand and quality.
A dander brush and nail clippers are definitely required to keep your cat looking its best. Other grooming products include bathing soap, ear cleaning solution, and teeth/gum supplies.
Medications and Vet Visits
- $50–$150 per month
In addition to routine veterinary care, Khao Manee cats may require medications or special treatments for certain health conditions. The cost of these medications and treatments can vary widely depending on the condition being treated. On average, if you have a healthy Khao Manee, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50–$150 a month for medication costs and/or vet visits. Insurance can help lessen these costs.
Pet Insurance
- $15–$50 per month
Pet insurance is not a necessity, but it can help you keep your cat’s health costs down. Monthly insurance for these cats can range $15–$50 (or more) per month depending on the plan that you choose.
Environment Maintenance
- $35–$85 per month
Maintaining your cat’s environment is also important for ensuring that they are at their happiest and healthiest. Here are some things that you may wish to purchase to make your home happier as well.
| Litter box liners | $20/month |
| Deodorizing spray or granules | $25/month |
| Cardboard Scratcher | $15/month |
Entertainment
- $15–$50 per month
Khao Manees are fascinating creatures that, like most house casts, love to play and be entertained. When it comes to keeping them happy and engaged, there are several forms of entertainment that can be used to keep them entertained. One of the most popular forms of entertainment for cats is interactive toys.
These toys are designed to encourage your cat to play and explore, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some popular interactive toys include feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle boxes (these can be purchased for under $20). Another form of entertainment that cats love is scratching posts which typically cost around $10 to $15. These posts provide a place for cats to scratch and stretch, and they also help keep their claws healthy.
Finally, many cats love watching birds and other wildlife through a window. Installing a bird feeder or birdhouse outside your window can provide hours of entertainment for your feline friend. You can buy a bird feeder for around $20 and a bag of feed for under $10.
Total Monthly Cost of Owning a Khao Manee
- $60–$180+ per month
Overall, the average monthly cost of owning a Khao Manee can range from $60 to $180, not factoring in vet visits, which often don’t occur monthly. The cost per month also depends on the specific needs of your cat and your personal spending habits. And the average monthly cost of owning a Khao Manee can vary depending on a few different factors.
One of the biggest expenses is food, as Khao Manees require a high-quality diet to maintain their health and energy levels. Other expenses to consider include litter, toys, and grooming supplies. Additionally, it’s important to factor in routine veterinary care, such as vaccinations, check-ups, and parasite prevention.
Additional Costs to Factor In
Like owning any cat, owning a Khao Manee comes with its fair share of responsibilities and costs. Apart from the usual expenses like food, litter, and toys, there are additional costs that must be factored in when owning a cat. One that you may not think of is cat proofing your home.
Like other cat breeds, Khao Manees are curious creatures, and they love to explore their surroundings. This can lead to accidents and damage to your belongings. Investing in sturdy furniture, scratching posts, and toys can help prevent these incidents. Additionally, kitty-proofing your home by hiding wires and cords can help protect your furry friend from harm and prevent costly repairs.
Also, travel expenses should also be considered if you’re someone who prefers to travel with your pet via train or airplane. If you plan on traveling with your cat, you need to invest in a suitable carrier, vaccinations, and other travel essentials. If you cannot take your cat with you, you will need to arrange for a pet sitter or boarding facility, which can be expensive.
The 4 Common Health Issues with Khao Manee
As mentioned earlier, though these cats are generally healthy and hardy, they can still be prone to a few common health issues.
1. Dental Issues
One of the most common health issues that Khao Manee cats can face are dental and oral problems. Like all cats, these felines are prone to dental issues such as stomatitis, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and abscesses. This can be exacerbated by their tendency to eat dry food, which can lead to plaque buildup and tartar accumulation.
To avoid dental problems, it’s crucial to provide your cat with regular dental care, such as brushing their teeth, providing dental chews or toys (such as DentaLife dental chews), and scheduling regular dental cleanings with your veterinarian.
2. Obesity
Another common health issue that Khao Manee cats can face is obesity. These cats have a tendency to overeat, which can lead to weight gain and health problems such as diabetes, joint pain, and heart disease. A balanced diet and plenty of exercise can help prevent many of these issues. This can be achieved through regular playtime, providing climbing structures or toys, and monitoring your cat’s food intake.
3. Skin Issues
Khao Manee cats can also be prone to skin issues such as allergies, fungal infections, and parasites (which can cause infection and disease in some cases). These can cause symptoms such as itching, rashes, and mild to severe hair loss. To prevent skin problems, you’ll need to maintain good hygiene for your cat and provide your Manee with regular grooming. This can include bathing, brushing, and using flea and tick preventatives.
4. Genetic Issues
Finally, Khao Manee cats can be prone to genetic health issues such as deafness, blindness, and heart defects. These issues can be present from birth and are often hereditary, unfortunately. If you’re considering adopting a Khao Manee cat, it’s important to first research the breeder and ensure that they are a legal breeder and actually breeding for health and temperament, and not just appearance.
Owning a Khao Manee on a Budget
Due to their rarity, purchasing one of these cats is expensive, and there’s no way around it. Once you’ve purchased one, owning a Khao Manee on a budget is feasible, but it requires some strategic planning and smart choices. One way to save money when acquiring a Khao Manee is to adopt from a shelter or rescue organization. Many shelters have purebred cats, including Khao Manees, available for adoption at a lower cost than purchasing from a breeder. Another option is to search for Khao Manee breeders that offer payment plans or discounts for multiple purchases.
Additionally, it’s essential to budget for routine veterinary care and food expenses. Choosing a high-quality cat food can help prevent health issues and reduce vet bills in the long run. Also, grooming the Khao Manee at home can save money on professional grooming services. Lastly, investing in cat toys and scratching posts can keep the Khao Manee entertained, preventing them from destructive behavior and reducing potential damage to furniture.
Save Money on Khao Manee Care
One of the best ways that you can save on monthly calls for your cat is to buy food and litter in bulk. Why? Because food and litter will be the most common necessities that you buy for your Khao Manee. Purchasing cat food and litter in larger quantities can often save you money in the long run and you can check out places like Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Petco for bulk discounts. Additionally, consider purchasing generic or store-brand options, which can be just as effective as name-brand products at a fraction of the cost.
Another way to save money on Khao Manee care is to groom your cat at home. While taking your cat to a professional groomer can be convenient, it can also be expensive. Invest in a quality grooming kit and learn how to trim your cat’s nails and brush their fur at home. Not only can this save you money, but it can also be a bonding experience for you and your cat.
When it comes to vet care, be proactive about your Khao Manee’s health. Schedule regular check-ups and keep up with vaccinations and preventative care. This can help avoid costly medical bills down the line. Additionally, consider pet insurance to help cover unexpected vet expenses.
Conclusion
Owning a Khao Manee cat can be a rewarding experience, but it’s imperative to understand the costs involved with owning these gorgeous cats. By considering the one-time and ongoing costs associated with owning a Khao Manee cat such as grooming, vet care, and day-to-day costs like food, you can ensure that you are prepared for the financial commitment that comes with pet ownership. With proper care and attention, your Khao Manee cat can bring you joy and companionship for many years to come.
Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock
